Computer input device for automatically scrolling

Abstract

A computer input device includes a body and a trace-detecting module coupled to the body. The body has a micro control unit (MCU), and the trace-detecting module has at least a light pervious area, and a trace-detecting unit. The trace-detecting unit further has at least a light source and a sensor. The sensor senses a reflected light beam caused by movement of a user's digit movement on the light pervious area at a velocity which can be sensed by the sensor. If the velocity exceeds a threshold stored in the MCU, the MCU executes automatically scrolling at a predetermined scrolling speed.

Description

[0001]This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 630,696, filed on Jul. 31, 2003, and now patented (U.S. Pat. No. 7,298,362).BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to a computer input device and method thereof for scrolling, and in particular to an input device which causes automatic scrolling at a predetermined speed if the velocity of the object exceeds a threshold. The automatic scrolling may be initiated by detection of the variation of a light beam reflected by a moving object, or by a finger-activated mechanism or device such as a traditional scroll wheel.[0004]2. Description of the Prior Art[0005]The so-called “scrolling” function in applications was first introduced in U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,455, which disclosed the roller-like device that is now typically included at the top of a computer mouse. Once the roller is rotated, the non-displayed portion of an application or document can be...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]It is an objective of the present invention to provide an easy way to scroll an application without raising producing costs.

[0008]It is another objective of the present invention to provide a method and device that enables fast scrolling with minimal movement on the part of the user.

[0011]Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the preferred embodiment includes an optical trace-detection module, the automatic scrolling effect could be initiated by other movement detection devices, including devices that detect a moving scroll wheel, track ball, joystick, or the like rather than the user's finger.

Problems solved by technology

However, due to the abundant contents in a website or numerous data within a so-called Excel® program, the traditional way to scroll the contents line-by-line, page-by-page, or by dragging the scrolling bar from the top to the bottom will bring a great suffering to the user's digit or finger.

However, it is difficult to assemble the relating components together in the narrow space.

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